Net Worth Ranker
What Is Howard K. Stern’s Net Worth?
Howard K. Stern, an American attorney who gained significant public attention through his association with Anna Nicole Smith, has an estimated net worth of $500,000. This valuation reflects his earnings from his legal career, media appearances, and other ventures.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on November 29, 1968, in Los Angeles, California, Howard K. Stern’s early life was rooted in a Jewish family. He pursued higher education at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1990. Stern continued his academic journey at UCLA School of Law, culminating in a Juris Doctor degree. He was admitted to the State Bar of California in early 1994, marking the official commencement of his legal profession. Specific details regarding his early earnings or initial cases handled remain unavailable, but his admission to the bar signifies the start of his income-generating activities as an attorney.
Relationship with Anna Nicole Smith and Media Appearances
Stern’s involvement with Anna Nicole Smith began in the mid-1990s when his law firm handled her modeling contracts. His role expanded significantly after the death of Smith’s husband, J. Howard Marshall, in 1998, during Smith’s legal battle to secure Marshall’s fortune, Stern presented her direct examination. In 2002, he gained more widespread recognition as a co-star on the E! reality television sitcom “The Anna Nicole Show.”
The show, which chronicled the life and exploits of Smith and her entourage, featured Stern as a prominent figure for three seasons, until 2004. While specific salary details from “The Anna Nicole Show” are not publicly available, reality television personalities typically earn anywhere from several thousand dollars per episode to hundreds of thousands, depending on their role and the show’s popularity. Stern’s role as a main cast member likely provided him with a substantial income stream during the show’s run.
During his time with Smith, Stern also ran the talent agency Hot Smoochie Lips, where Smith was a client. The financial performance of this agency and Stern’s earnings from it are not publicly documented, but it would have contributed to his overall income during that period.
In September 2006, Stern and Smith participated in a non-legally binding wedding ceremony in the Bahamas. Following Smith’s death from combined drug intoxication in early 2007, Stern was named the executor of her estate, which further involved him in legal and financial matters.
Paternity Dispute and Legal Challenges
Following Anna Nicole Smith’s death, a dispute arose over the paternity of her infant daughter, Dannielynn. Initially, Stern claimed to be the father, and he was listed as such on the birth certificate. However, DNA evidence later confirmed that Larry Birkhead was the biological father. Stern did not contest the ruling and assisted Birkhead in obtaining sole custody. This situation did not directly impact Stern’s net worth, but it added to his public profile and involvement in legal proceedings.
In March 2009, Stern faced significant legal challenges when he, along with Dr. Sandeep Kapoor and Dr. Khristine Eroshevich, were charged with conspiracy to prescribe, administer, and dispense controlled substances to an addict. While Kapoor was acquitted, Stern and Eroshevich were initially found guilty. However, Stern’s conviction was later dismissed in 2011 and again in 2015. Legal battles of this nature can incur substantial costs, including attorney fees and potential fines. The exact amount Stern spent on his defense is not public information, but it would have undoubtedly impacted his finances. The dismissal of the charges likely saved him from further financial penalties and reputational damage.
Libel Lawsuit
Howard K. Stern initiated a $60 million libel lawsuit against journalist Rita Cosby over allegations made in her book “Blonde Ambition.” Cosby’s book suggested that Anna Nicole Smith’s nannies possessed a sex tape involving Stern and Larry Birkhead in a gay relationship. The lawsuit, filed through the law firm Powell Goldstein, alleged that Cosby’s claims were defamatory and damaging to Stern’s reputation. During the deposition process, Cosby revealed that her sources for the sex tape were private investigators Don Clark and Wilma Vicedomine, who had been hired by attorney John O’Quinn.
In 2009, a federal judge, Denny Chin, ruled that Cosby’s actions raised concerns and included efforts to obstruct justice, thereby allowing a significant portion of Stern’s lawsuit to proceed. Although the precise terms of the out-of-court settlement reached in late 2009 were not disclosed, such settlements often involve financial compensation to the plaintiff. The amount Stern received from the settlement is not public knowledge, but it would have contributed positively to his financial standing at the time.
Later Career and Public Defender Role
In 2019, Stern joined the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office. Public defender salaries vary based on experience, location, and level of responsibility. In Los Angeles County, the average salary for a public defender can range from $70,000 to $150,000 annually. While the exact compensation Stern receives in this role is not publicly available, it represents a steady income source contributing to his net worth. His role as a public defender suggests a transition from private practice and media involvement to a more traditional legal career.
Real Estate and Personal Assets
Specific details regarding Howard K. Stern’s real estate holdings and personal assets are not widely publicized. Public records may contain some information on property ownership, but accessing and confirming these details would require extensive research. Information on his vehicles, investments, and other assets is not readily available, making it difficult to provide a comprehensive breakdown of his total net worth.
Summary of Howard K. Stern’s Net Worth Components
In summary, Howard K. Stern’s net worth of $500,000 is derived from several sources, including his legal career, earnings from “The Anna Nicole Show” and other media appearances, potential income from his talent agency, and any proceeds from legal settlements. While specific financial details remain private, his career trajectory provides insight into the factors contributing to his financial standing. The various legal challenges and professional transitions he has navigated throughout his career have undoubtedly played a role in shaping his current net worth.
